Patrice Evra Names Cody Gakpo Liverpool’s Best Player Amid Exit Rumours

Cody Gakpo has been identified as Liverpool’s best player by Manchester United legend Patrice Evra, despite growing speculation that the Dutch forward could leave Anfield before the summer transfer window closes.

Liverpool are entering a new phase after the departure of Mohamed Salah, and Evra believes the Reds are currently missing the quality and influence the Egyptian forward provided. The former Manchester United defender feels Gakpo has emerged as the standout performer in Liverpool’s attack.

Patrice Evra backs Cody Gakpo as Liverpool’s best player

Gakpo has become one of the major names in Liverpool’s transfer discussions following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 27-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, with the Reds viewing him as a potential saleable asset.

Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Gakpo remains under contract with Liverpool until June 2030. Reports have also claimed that the forward has agreed personal terms with Tottenham, although a transfer would depend on Liverpool strengthening their options in wide areas.

Evra believes Liverpool’s current attacking situation makes Gakpo particularly important.

“Liverpool have something missing. They don’t have Mohamed Salah anymore. I think Cody Gakpo is their best player now,” Evra said.

The former France international also discussed Liverpool’s other attacking options, including Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak, while highlighting the importance of service for the Swedish striker.

Evra questions Florian Wirtz’s early Liverpool impact

Evra also offered an assessment of Florian Wirtz, suggesting that the German midfielder has yet to impose himself consistently on matches.

Wirtz’s movement and technical ability have impressed Evra, but the former Manchester United defender believes the midfielder needs to become more influential when games become difficult.

“Florian Wirtz’s movement is unbelievable, but he’s too soft. He’s too beautiful. I don’t feel any impact, no aura, he’s not dominating a game,” Evra said.

He nevertheless acknowledged Wirtz’s intelligence and predicted that the midfielder would eventually make a significant contribution to Liverpool.

Evra’s comments underline the expectations surrounding Wirtz after Liverpool brought him to the club. The midfielder is expected to become an important creative force, but adapting to a new league and tactical system can take time.

Liverpool’s attack faces major changes

The departure of Salah has created a significant gap in Liverpool’s attack. During his time at Anfield, the Egyptian was one of the team’s primary sources of goals, assists and attacking creativity.

With Salah no longer available, Liverpool need several players to share the attacking responsibility. Gakpo’s versatility could make him particularly valuable because he can operate in multiple positions across the frontline.

According to the provided report, Gakpo contributed nine goals and six assists in 52 appearances for Andoni Iraola’s team last season and has already scored once during the current campaign.

Gakpo transfer situation remains complicated

Although Gakpo has reportedly attracted serious interest, Liverpool are said to have conditions surrounding any potential departure. The Reds would reportedly want to bring in two wide players before sanctioning his sale.

This situation makes the final days of the transfer window especially important. Liverpool would have to balance the financial value of a potential Gakpo transfer with the sporting risk of losing another important attacking option.

His reported valuation of around £70 million also means Liverpool would have a major decision to make if a suitable offer arrives.

Liverpool reportedly close to Bradley Barcola deal

While Gakpo’s future remains uncertain, Liverpool are reportedly working on another major attacking addition. The Reds are said to be close to completing a deal worth around £120 million for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.

Barcola’s potential arrival could significantly strengthen Liverpool’s wide options and potentially provide the club with greater flexibility if Gakpo eventually leaves.

The reported interest in Barcola also fits with Liverpool’s wider need to rebuild their attacking depth following Salah’s exit.

Liverpool unlikely to sign another midfielder

The Reds are also dealing with changes in midfield after Curtis Jones completed a reported £30 million move to Inter Milan.

However, journalist David Lynch reportedly believes Liverpool are unlikely to sign another midfielder before the transfer window closes. The club are instead expected to rely on Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister.

Youngster Trey Nyoni and James McConnell could also provide additional options when required.

What Evra’s comments mean for Liverpool

Evra’s assessment highlights the uncertainty surrounding Liverpool’s attacking hierarchy following Salah’s departure. Gakpo may be facing transfer speculation, but his ability to contribute from different attacking positions makes him an important player for the Reds.

If Liverpool can retain Gakpo while adding another high-quality wide attacker, Arne Slot could have significantly more flexibility in building his forward line. If the Dutchman leaves, however, the club will need its incoming signings to compensate for another major attacking departure.

For now, Evra’s verdict is clear: despite the presence of several high-profile forwards and the arrival of Wirtz, he believes Gakpo is Liverpool’s most important player at this stage of the post-Salah era.